Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds produced in your body and found in foods. They help defend your cells from damage caused by potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals. When free radicals build up, they may cause a state known as oxidative stress. This may damage your DNA and other important structures in your cells.

Oxidative stress can increase your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Eating foods rich in antioxidants can help increase your blood antioxidant levels to fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of these diseases.

Foods High In Antioxidants

Dark Chocolate: (70% + coco solids) Help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).

Pecans: Essential fatty acids (EFA’s). Promote gut health / Reduce cholesterol.

Berries: Contain high amounts of antioxidants reducing cholesterol and help to prevent cognitive decline.

Kale: Like broccoli & cauliflower Kale is a cruciferous vegetable. Kale is rich in vitamins A, K and C. It’s also high in antioxidants.

Red Fruits / Veg: Red fruits and vegetables (cabbage, onion, aubergine lettuce etc.) contain the most antioxidants per gram. They all contain anthocyanin’s, which gives the fruit/veg their red/purple colour. A diet rich in purple fruits and vegetables will help prevent oxidative stress.

Antioxidants are compounds that your body makes naturally. You can also get them from foods. By eating variety of the foods high in antioxidants you can boost your blood levels of antioxidants and reap their many health benefits.

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